United Premier Access is a paid priority service from United Airlines that offers streamlined airport experiences for eligible travelers. Designed to reduce time spent in lines, this add-on is marketed toward both frequent flyers and time-conscious leisure travelers. While the promise of faster check-ins and quicker boarding is appealing, the question remains: is it worth the cost?
What Does United Premier Access Include?
United Premier Access includes several expedited airport services bundled into one product:
- Priority check-in through dedicated counters
- Faster security screening via Premier Access lanes at select airports
- Early boarding privileges, specifically Group 2 boarding
- Priority baggage handling, ensuring faster baggage claim delivery
- Dedicated service lines at ticket counters and customer service desks
These benefits aim to reduce airport wait times and provide a smoother ground experience, especially during peak travel periods.
Who Can Get United Premier Access?
Premier Access is available to several categories of travelers:
- MileagePlus Premier members (Silver and above)
- Star Alliance Gold members
- Passengers traveling in United First, Business, or Polaris cabins
In addition, Premier Access can be purchased separately by any traveler flying on a United-operated flight. The option appears during booking, at check-in, or at self-service kiosks. However, the access is flight-specific and not transferable across segments or passengers.
How Much Does United Premier Access Cost?
The price of United Premier Access ranges from $15 to $80+ per flight segment, depending on several variables:
- Departure airport and destination
- Overall route length and demand
- Ticket type and fare class
- Whether the purchase is made online or at the airport
For example, a short domestic flight from Denver to Phoenix may offer Premier Access for $20, while a longer or busier route like Newark to San Francisco could exceed $60. Prices are dynamic and often tied to travel season and booking window.
Is United Premier Access the Same as TSA PreCheck or Clear?
No, United Premier Access is entirely separate from government or biometric security programs. Here is a quick comparison:
- Premier Access: United’s proprietary airport priority service, includes boarding, check-in, and baggage handling advantages.
- TSA PreCheck: A government-run program that expedites the security screening process across all participating airlines.
- Clear: A private biometric verification service that offers fast-track access to TSA security lines.
You can combine Premier Access with TSA PreCheck or Clear for maximum efficiency, but purchasing one does not grant access to the others.
How Does Premier Access Compare to Other Airline Priority Programs?
In the U.S. market, several major airlines offer similar services. Here’s how United Premier Access compares:
| Feature | United Premier Access | Delta Sky Priority | American Priority Access |
| Priority Check-in | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Dedicated Security Lane | Yes (limited airports) | Yes | Yes |
| Early Boarding | Yes (Group 2) | Yes | Yes |
| Priority Baggage Handling | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Lounge Access | No | No | No |
While all three services offer similar core features, availability at airports and ease of purchase can vary significantly.
Is United Premier Access Worth It for Occasional Travelers?
For leisure travelers flying once or twice a year, Premier Access can be a helpful upgrade under specific conditions:
- Flying during peak travel periods such as holidays or summer vacations
- Departing from major hubs like Chicago O’Hare or Newark where security and check-in lines are long
- Checking baggage and wanting faster retrieval after landing
However, if traveling with only carry-on luggage or from a smaller airport, the value proposition decreases.
Is United Premier Access Worth It for Frequent Flyers?
For business travelers or those with multiple United flights annually, Premier Access can offer real value:
- Cumulative time savings over many flights
- More reliable boarding group placement during busy schedules
- Professional appearance when navigating airports with efficiency
Although many frequent flyers already receive these benefits through status, those without elite status may find the upgrade worthwhile for productivity gains.
Tips to Maximize United Premier Access Value
To get the most out of Premier Access, consider these strategies:
- Combine it with TSA PreCheck or Clear for quicker overall processing
- Use travel credit cards that reimburse for airline purchases
- Purchase only on busy travel days or routes with known congestion
- Check in online early to secure your Group 2 boarding spot
Using Premier Access selectively is often more cost-effective than buying it for every trip.
Common Misconceptions About United Premier Access
Many travelers confuse Premier Access with other premium services. It’s important to note that Premier Access does not include:
- Access to United Club or Polaris lounges
- Complimentary upgrades to premium cabins
- Free checked baggage or overweight bag waivers
It’s a ground service enhancement only, no in-flight benefits are included.
Real Traveler Reviews & Case Studies
Feedback from travelers is generally positive, particularly from those departing from larger airports. Business travelers often cite “less stress and faster boarding” as reasons for consistent use. Families also find value in minimizing time spent in lines when traveling with children.
However, some travelers question the price on short routes or when departing from small regional airports where benefits like expedited lanes may be unavailable.
Final Verdict: Is United Premier Access Worth It?
Yes, for travelers who value time savings and travel through major hubs frequently. Premier Access provides measurable convenience for those without elite status or who want to avoid airport stress. However, the value is heavily dependent on route, airport, and individual priorities. For infrequent flyers, it’s best used selectively when airport conditions justify the cost.
Frequently Asked Questions About United Premier Access
1. Does United Premier Access include free checked bags?
No, United Premier Access does not include any free checked baggage. Baggage fees are charged separately unless the traveler holds elite status or a qualifying credit card benefit.
2. Can I get United Premier Access after booking my flight?
Yes, you can purchase Premier Access after booking through the United website, mobile app, or at the airport. Availability may vary based on route and timing.
3. Is Premier Access available for international flights?
Yes, United Premier Access is available on both domestic and international flights, provided the departure airport supports the service.
4. Do children or travel companions also get Premier Access?
Only passengers listed on the booking with Premier Access will receive the benefits. Travel companions must have it added individually unless included through a shared reservation with status.
5. What boarding group is included with Premier Access?
Premier Access customers board in Group 2, which is ahead of most economy passengers but after United Global Services and Group 1 travelers.